Sacha Baron Cohen not banned from the Oscars

A representative for the Academy Awards has denied Sacha Baron Cohen has been banned Sunday night’s ceremony over his plans to show up dressed as the main character from his film “The Dictator.”

The British comic reportedly made it clear to Oscar bosses that he wanted to walk the red carpet in the guise of the wacky alter-ego from his latest film, which is loosely based on late Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.

The star is due to appear at the award ceremony to support Martin Scorsese’s “Hugo,” which he starred in, as the film competes for the coveted Best Picture trophy. Rumors suggested Academy chiefs didn’t want his antics to overshadow the glitzy night.

However, a spokesperson for the organization insists Cohen has not been told to stay away from the ceremony, but admits they are still waiting to find out what he has planned.

The rep says, “We have not banned him. We’re just waiting to hear what he’s going to do.”

Cohen has courted controversy at previous industry events by turning up in character.

He caused a stir in 2006 by arriving at the Toronto Film Festival in Canada as Borat on a cart pulled by peasant women, and at the 2009 MTV Movie Awards, he dropped from the ceiling as flamboyant fashion reporter Bruno, with his bare behind landing inches from rapper Eminem’s face.